Reports: Sullivan out 3-4 months after surgery

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — James Andrews, the renowned Alabama surgeon, did wonders for Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson. How about a try with center John Sullivan, Minnesota’s leader along its strong offensive line?

Sullivan, who played every snap last season, had microfracture knee surgery last week performed by Andrews, according to multiple reports. Sullivan is facing a three- to four-month recovery from the surgery, which will limit his participation in Minnesota’s offseason program but should have him ready for the start of training camp next season.

Sullivan finished the season rated as the No. 1 center in the NFL, based on evaluations from Profootballfocus.com, and was the steady man in the middle of a Vikings offensive line that had two new starters in rookie Matt Kalil and second-year right guard Brandon Fusco. Together, the group blocked for Peterson’s 2,097 rushing yards, the second-highest, single-season total in league history. Minnesota allowed 32 sacks, the 11th-lowest total in the NFL.